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Join the Marching Illini in Dublin, Ireland for the National St. Patrick’s Day Parade! This landmark trip will place the Marching Illini on a global stage, representing the university, the state of Illinois, and collegiate band programs nationwide. During their time abroad, the Marching Illini will serve as musical ambassadors—sharing traditions, artistry, and school spirit while engaging with Irish culture and audiences. The itinerary includes high-profile performances, cultural exchanges, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that reflect the ensemble’s commitment to excellence, education, and service.
The National St. Patrick’s Day Parade begins at 12pm on 17 March in Dublin City Centre, running from Parnell Square in the north of the city, down O’Connell Street, over O’Connell Bridge and through the south side of the city, ending at the Cuffe Street/Kevin Street junction. No tickets are required for you to attend the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Simply pick a spot along the route and enjoy the spectacle and excitement! If you would like a seat at the Parade, there are a limited number of tickets available to purchase for grandstand seats. Grandstand tickets for St. Patrick’s Festival 2026 are on sale now.
The parade starts at 12 noon. More information can be found here.
Additional Dublin St. Patrick’s Festival events can be found here. More information about participating marching bands can be found on the St. Patrick’s Day website. Information about the Marching Illini’s additional performance in Kilkenny, Ireland can be found here.
University Of Illinois Marching Illini
The Marching Illini represents a tradition unlike any other. Beginning as a student run organization in 1868, the Marching Illini has grown to be recognized as one of the nation’s premier college marching bands, entertaining millions of fans throughout the world with traditional and innovative performances spanning more than 157+ years.
In the 1920’s, John Philip Sousa called the Illinois Band the “World’s Greatest College Band.” Superlatives like this have come to be expected during the long and illustrious history of the University of Illinois Bands.
The unique style of the Marching Illini represents a combination of time-honored traditions and exciting innovations. The Marching Illini is a select organization which annually includes many of the University of Illinois’ finest and most dedicated students. Three hundred and seventy five members STRONG, its members represent academic units across the Urbana-Champaign campus.
Additional Dublin St. Patrick’s Festival events can be found here. More information about participating marching bands can be found here.
The Parade Map can be found below.
